A shield in plain sight, fire rated glazing (glass) might be one of the pricier options, but it’s also one of the smartest investments for safeguarding lives and assets.
Acting like a silent guard, fire rated glazing stands guard to stop flames from spreading, offering precious minutes for safe evacuations and protecting spaces from potential devastation.
So, what factors affect the fire rated glass price per square foot? It's not just about the quantity; there’s much more at play in crafting this invaluable line of defense.
In this article, we will be focusing on the following actual reasoning of the cost behind fire rated glass:
- What factors shape the cost of fire rated glass
- Why use fire rated glass
- Substitutes of fire rated glass
What Factors Shape the Cost Per Square Foot of Fire Rated Glazing
How much does fire rated glazing cost? The answer comes down to these three main factors:
1. Location2. Type
3. Design
1. Location
The most significant factor in determining the cost of fire rated glass is its location in a building, and building codes determine much of this cost.
For example, some building codes call for 90-minute glasses instead of 20-minute glasses in stairwells. Not surprisingly, 90-minute glasses are more pricey.
Of course, building codes vary from place to place, right down to the municipality level. Although the International Code Council has set the minimum building code regulations, they are only the minimum. Different jurisdictions can impose more stringent but not less stringent rules.
Ensure your architect or project manager is up to speed on all building codes and incorporates those regulations into your project’s design. Failing to follow codes is expensive—a building inspector will likely cite your project and require you to replace the glass.
2. Type
Fire rated glazing is divided into two categories: fire resistant and fire protective. While both can withstand extreme heat, there are differences between them and their applications.
Fire resistant glass not only contains flame and smoke in space but also limits radiant heat transference. In other words, this glass protects people from flames and smoke as they pass by a fire.
It is primarily used and often required in egress points such as fire escapes, stairwells, and corridors.
Fire protective glass compartmentalizes fire and smoke to prevent a blaze from spreading and causing more damage to a building. However, it doesn’t block radiant heat.
It’s often used in steel fireproof doors and entrance sidelights.
3. Design
In commercial or public spaces where glass is a predominant architectural feature, such as a hospital or hotel, fire rated glass may need to be shaped for intricate spaces.
This means a commercial glass manufacturer spends more time and labor to create a piece that fits where it should.
Is There a Substitute for Fire Rated Glass?
Technically, there is a substitute for fire rated glass—a combination of tempered glass and a sprinkler system.
However, tempered glass has its limitations when it comes to fire protection. Although it is one of the strongest types of glass available, it is highly sensitive to thermal stress and uneven heating or cooling.
Even a tiny imperfection can cause it to break unexpectedly, especially under intense heat. Since tempered glass is not designed specifically to withstand fire, it isn’t used to contain or control a blaze.
While tempered glass can slow a fire down, it does not provide the same protection or peace of mind as fire rated glazing.
Why Use Fire Rated Glass?
Fire rated glass is engineered to contain fires, providing necessary safety for people and property within a building in ways traditional glass simply cannot.
Unlike standard glass, which easily shatters under intense heat, fire rated glass holds its strength and structure, forming a reliable barrier against flames and smoke. This added strength helps contain the fire, giving more time for safe evacuations and allowing emergency responders crucial moments to act.
Insurance companies recognize the importance of this added protection, offering lower premiums for buildings equipped with fire rated glass. While there may be an up-front investment, the cost is minimal compared to the potential expense and disruption of recovering from a devastating fire.
Ultimately, fire rated glass offers peace of mind, safeguarding assets and lives with a reliability that ordinary glass simply cannot match.
Burning Questions About Fire Rated Glazing
What factors influence the cost of fire rated glass per square foot? The cost is shaped mainly by location, type, and design, as each impacts how the glass needs to be manufactured, installed, and integrated to meet safety codes. Why is fire rated glass necessary for specific applications? Fire rated glass is essential for containing fires, providing critical protection to people and assets, and meeting safety codes that standard glass cannot fulfill. What added benefits does fire rated glass provide for building owners? Beyond safety, fire rated glass may lead to lower insurance premiums and offers a durable, long-term solution that minimizes the risk and cost of fire recovery. |
Fire Rated Glazing: An Investment in Safety
With fire rated glass, every square inch is worth the investment. This glass offers unparalleled fire protection, helping to contain fires and providing critical time for safe evacuation, making it an essential choice for building safety.
For those prioritizing safety and compliance without compromise, fire-rated glass delivers peace of mind that standard glass simply can’t match.
Considering Fire Rated Glazing For Your Project?
With over 50 years of experience, New Angle Beveling provides top-quality fire rated glass products tailored to your safety and design needs. Contact us today to find the right glass for your project.
(Editor's note: This article was originally published in September 2020 and was recently updated.)
